Edo Period Lacquer Trays - Japanese Antique Urushi Lacquerware Large Nesting Serving Set

These Edo period lacquer trays are a rare pair of large nesting trays from the late Edo Period, crafted in Kanazawa, Japan. Designed as traditional Japanese serving trays, they showcase exquisite Urushi lacquerware with gold Maki-e detailing that elevates any table setting. Measuring 20.1" × 13" × 1.7" (51cm × 33cm × 4.2cm) for the large tray and 19.5" × 12.5" × 1.7" (49.6cm × 31.8cm × 4.2cm) for the medium, these antique Japanese trays weigh approximately 50.6 oz (1,438g) combined and come with their original wooden storage box, preserving their museum quality lacquerware condition.

Each tray features a deep black lacquer finish that has matured over 150 years, combined with intricate gold leaf designs depicting twin bird crests and a geometric mesh pattern along the rims. This masterful craftsmanship highlights the luxury Edo tableware tradition of Kanazawa, known for its heritage tableware and vintage gold leaf trays used by high-ranking families during the Edo period.

Key features include:

- Authentic Urushi lacquerware with durable, mirror-like black lacquer finish → offers unparalleled depth and shine

- Gold Maki-e trays decorated with precise bird crests and mesh patterns → adds artistic elegance to display or serving

- Large nesting trays sized for versatile use → ideal for serving premium sake, appetizers, or tea ceremonies

- Original antique wooden storage box included → ensures safe preservation and provenance

- Excellent antique condition with minor age-related wear → maintains structural integrity and visual appeal

Additional benefits:

- Crafted in Kanazawa, a city famed for its traditional Japanese lacquer trays and gold leaf artistry

- Vintage gold leaf trays represent authentic Edo-period luxury tableware prized by collectors

- Black lacquer trays aged gracefully over 150 years → providing genuine patina impossible to replicate today

- Suitable as museum quality lacquerware for historical collections or elegant home decor

- Large size makes these Japanese antique trays perfect as both functional tableware and artistic display pieces

These Japanese antique trays are more than just tableware; they are a testament to centuries-old craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The Urushi lacquer coating provides durability while enhancing the visual depth of the black finish, making these Kanazawa lacquer trays stand out in any setting. Their gold Maki-e decoration is a hallmark of traditional Japanese artistry, reflecting both luxury and meticulous attention to detail.

Collectors will appreciate the provenance from a long-established family estate in Kanazawa, which adds authenticity and historical value to this pair of large nesting trays. The inclusion of the original wooden storage box further confirms their well-preserved status as genuine antique Japanese tableware.

Despite minor surface chafing and small chips consistent with their age—such as a small peeled area on the center of the large tray and along the edge of the medium tray—these imperfections do not compromise their overall beauty or structural soundness.

Perfect for elevating formal dining experiences or enhancing an artful display, these luxury Edo tableware pieces combine function and history seamlessly. Whether used in high-end dinner services or showcased as part of a historical collection, these vintage gold leaf trays embody the elegance of traditional Japanese serving trays.

Purchase with confidence knowing these museum quality lacquerware items have been securely stored in a traditional Kanazawa warehouse for over a century and come with hassle-free shipping options worldwide.